Over the past two weeks, the Burbank Police Department has taken several police reports from local businesses that received bomb threats via fax or email.

The threats have involved the request for a ransom to be paid via Western Union, usually in the amount of $25,000. A common theme seems to be that the ransom be sent to a Brazilian citizen. The threats state that explosives placed around the "building" will detonate if the funds are not sent.

It has been determined that these threats, almost all identical in nature, are part of a nationwide scam. The threats are being investigated. At this time, there is no information to believe any of the threats are credible.

Despite the lack of credibility to these threats, the Burbank Police Department is encouraging citizens to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. The Burbank Police Department also advises the public against sending any funds, in any amount, to individuals you do not know.

Anyone who receives a similar document, threat, or other communication that is suspicious in nature, or a request that money be wired either under the threat of violence or otherwise, is encouraged to report it to their local law enforcement agency.

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Questions or media inquiries related to this news article should be directed to Sergeant Derek Green, Press Information Officer, at dgreen@burbankca.gov or (818) 238-3240.